10975, Southfields, New York Asthma Score Travel Score

The Travel Score for the Asthma Score in 10975, Southfields, New York is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

33.96 percent of residents in 10975 to travel to work in 30 minutes or less.

When looking at the three closest hospitals, the average distance to a hospital is 12.63 miles. The closest hospital with an emergency room is Good Samaritan Hospital Of Suffern with a distance of 9.25 miles from the area.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare in Southfields, NY (ZIP Code 10975)

The crisp air of Southfields, New York (ZIP Code 10975), nestled in the scenic Hudson Valley, often beckons those seeking respite from urban congestion. However, for individuals managing asthma, the promise of fresh air must be balanced with the realities of healthcare access. This "Asthma Score" write-up delves into the transportation landscape of Southfields, meticulously assessing the accessibility of medical care, crucial for residents with respiratory sensitivities. Understanding these nuances is paramount, particularly for those considering moving to Southfields.

The cornerstone of healthcare access is, of course, the ability to reach medical facilities. In Southfields, the primary mode of transportation for healthcare visits is the automobile. The strategic location of the area, while offering natural beauty, presents a transportation challenge. Navigating to healthcare providers requires careful consideration of driving times, traffic patterns, and the availability of alternative modes of transport.

For residents of Southfields, the nearest hospitals and specialized asthma care centers are located outside the immediate vicinity. The primary route to access these facilities involves traveling on **New York State Route 17 (the Quickway)**, a major east-west thoroughfare. Driving east on Route 17 provides access to Good Samaritan Hospital in Suffern, approximately a 20-30 minute drive, depending on traffic. Westbound on Route 17 leads to Garnet Health Medical Center in Middletown, a longer journey of around 40-50 minutes, again contingent on traffic flow.

Traffic, particularly during peak commuting hours, can significantly impact these drive times. Morning and evening commutes often see congestion on Route 17, adding precious minutes to the journey. The **New York State Thruway (I-87)**, accessible via ramps from Route 17, offers an alternative route, potentially speeding up travel to more distant healthcare facilities in the New York City metropolitan area. However, this option incurs tolls and adds complexity to the commute.

Secondary roads, such as **Seven Lakes Drive** and **Long Meadow Road**, offer alternative routes within the Southfields area. These roads, while scenic, are generally slower and less direct. They are best suited for local trips and accessing nearby primary care physicians or urgent care facilities. These options are limited in their capacity to handle a medical emergency, especially for an asthma attack.

Public transportation options are limited in Southfields. The **Metro-North Railroad's Port Jervis Line** provides service, with a station in nearby Tuxedo. However, the train primarily runs east towards New York City, making it less convenient for accessing hospitals located west of Southfields. Furthermore, the frequency of trains is limited, particularly during off-peak hours, and the station's accessibility features for individuals with mobility impairments should be carefully assessed.

The **Transport of Rockland (TOR)** bus system offers some limited service in the region. However, bus routes are infrequent and do not directly serve healthcare facilities outside of the immediate vicinity. The lack of comprehensive public transportation presents a significant challenge for individuals who do not drive or who are unable to drive due to their medical condition. ADA accessibility of the bus routes and stops needs to be carefully considered.

Ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are available in the Southfields area. However, their reliability and availability, especially during off-peak hours or in inclement weather, can be unpredictable. Ride-sharing costs can also be a significant factor, particularly for frequent medical appointments. Medical transportation services, like ambulance services, are available for emergencies.

The availability of medical transportation services is crucial for individuals with asthma. These services provide non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) to and from medical appointments. Several companies operate in the Southfields area, offering various levels of service. However, the cost of NEMT can be substantial, and insurance coverage varies. It's essential to research the specific coverage offered by one's health insurance plan.

For individuals with asthma, the ideal scenario is to have a primary care physician or pulmonologist located within a reasonable driving distance. Southfields has a limited number of healthcare providers. This necessitates travel to neighboring towns and cities for specialized care. The distance to these facilities, combined with potential traffic congestion, can increase the time and stress associated with healthcare appointments.

Moving to Southfields requires careful consideration of these transportation challenges. Individuals with asthma should proactively research the location of healthcare providers, assess driving times, and explore alternative transportation options. They should also familiarize themselves with the local emergency services and medical transportation providers.

The "Asthma Score" for Southfields, therefore, reflects the complexities of healthcare access. While the area offers a desirable living environment, the limitations in transportation options and the distance to specialized medical care pose challenges for individuals with asthma. Careful planning and proactive research are essential to ensure access to timely and appropriate medical care.

The absence of readily available public transportation and the reliance on personal vehicles create a potential barrier to healthcare access. Individuals with asthma must be prepared to navigate the complexities of driving times, traffic patterns, and the availability of ride-sharing services.

The "Asthma Score" highlights the importance of understanding the transportation landscape when considering a move to Southfields. The proximity of healthcare facilities, the reliability of transportation options, and the availability of medical transportation services are all critical factors in ensuring access to the care needed to manage asthma effectively.